Joe Rogan's 'Only Criminals' Take on Gun Laws Condemned

Joe Rogan is facing criticism online for saying that "only criminals" will own guns in the event of stricter gun laws in the United States.

The controversial podcast host waded into the debate around gun laws following the massacre in Uvalde, Texas, last week that saw a gunman kill 19 elementary school children and two adults.

There have been widespread calls for a ban on assault rifles amid the latest tragedy with Republican opposition to gun reforms potentially loosening as the country mourns.

Speaking on the latest episode of his podcast with scientist Lex Friedman, Rogan shared his beliefs about clamping down on gun laws, and stated he does not believe it is "wise" to take weapons from gun owners.

"I don't think it's wise to take all the guns away from people and give all the power to the government," Rogan said.

"We see how they are with an armed populace, they still have a tendency towards totalitarianism. And the more increased power and control you have over people, the easier it is for them to do what they do. And it's a natural inclination, when you're a person in power, to try to hold more power and acquire more power."

This view has led to the host of The Joe Rogan Experience facing some criticism on Twitter.

"Ummmm...Joe Rogan has a podcast where he smokes pot and....well....smokes pot. He's not really in a position to 'issue stern warnings' with any kind of clout and/or authority," reads one tweet in response.

While another added: "Joe Rogan proves yet again that he is a steroid monkey with zero connection to the real world. if this was true btw Europe would be a hellscape cause they have some pretty tight restrictions on weapons and their cops seem to be doing better then our cowardly pigs right now. [sic]"

While another critic added: "This is where I must part ways with Joe Rogan. The US needs STRICTER gun control laws! Duh!"

This is a belief Rogan has held for a number of years. In 2013, he said on Twitter that the U.S. does not gave a gun problem, but a "mental health" problem.

"This country has a mental health problem disguised as a gun problem and a tyranny problem disguised as a security problem," he tweeted at the time.

Newsweek has reached out to Rogan for comment.

Rogan made headlines earlier this month when he mocked abortion rights supporters who were anxious about Roe v. Wade.